Countdown to takeoff

The final countdown is on and the wait is nearly over for the Winnipeg Jets.

With the final practice before the season opener against the Montreal Canadiens finally in the rearview mirror, Jets players are excited to be part of the NHLs return to Winnipeg.

“It’s been a long week. Everyone is really pumped up about it, but then we had the big layoff and it’s finally nice that it’s here and we can actually start playing games,” said Jets captain Andrew Ladd. “I don’t know if we know how special it will be until we’re actually out there and can feel it. But it’s definitely going to be a historic game and it’s going to fun to be part of.”

One player who isn’t planning on getting caught up in the pomp and circumstance is defenceman Dustin Byfuglien.

“It’s still just another game, it’s our job to go out and play hockey and perform for ourselves and our teammates,” said Byfuglien, who is eager to get the games finally underway. “I’m sick of doing all of these practices and not playing.”

The Canadiens are 0-1 after dropping a 2-0 decision to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday night but figure to pose a stiff test.

“They’ve got a quick team, a lot of skill and obviously great goaltending,” said Jets defenceman Mark Stuart. “You don’t want to take penalties against them because they’ll make you pay on the power play.”

Ondrej Pavelec will be between the pipes for the Jets, while Carey Price is expected to get the call for the Canadiens.